The US Embassy issued a travel alert and security warning for the island nation, citing 18 killings in the capital city of Nassau since January 2024.
“The US Embassy in Nassau advises US citizens to be aware that 18 murders have occurred since the beginning of 2024,” the embassy noted in the release.
“Murders have happened at all hours, including in broad daylight on the streets. “Retaliatory gang violence has been the primary motive in 2024 murders.”
Following the security alert, the US State Department added the Bahamas to its “Exercise Increased Caution” list, increasing it to Level 3, and encouraged Americans to keep a low profile, be aware of their surroundings, and do not resist criminals.
“Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas,” the press release stated. “Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence.”
The State Department also advised travelers not to “physically resist” robberies and to exercise vigilance when traveling at night.
The State Department also cautioned that many recreational watercraft rentals, tours, and trips are not routinely controlled.
“Watercraft may be poorly maintained, and some operators may not have safety certifications,” according to the press release. “Always review and heed local weather and marine alerts before engaging in water-based activities.”
The department also advised Americans not to swim alone in the Bahamas, where shark attacks have recently occurred.
In December, a female tourist from Boston was killed by a shark while paddleboarding less than a mile off the western end of New Providence island, near the capital, Nassau, according to the Associated Press.
According to the International Shark Attack File, at least 33 verified unprovoked shark attacks have occurred in the Bahamas since 1580, placing the island seventh in the world.
In a nationwide address last week, Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis announced increased police action and barricades in response to the recent security alert, as reported by the Nassau Guardian.
“This may make you late for your appointments, or delay plans you have, but this is a small price to pay for the collective benefit of having our streets made safer, and our lives less blighted by murder and other violent crimes,” he went on to say.
The State Department upped its alert level for travel to Jamaica to Level 3 last week due to violent crime, which “occurs frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts.”